Morristown Fatal Fire Ruled Accidental

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Chief Peter Demnitz of the Morristown Bureau of Police announce the findings of the investigation into the July 14, 2015 fire on Pine Street, in Morristown, New Jersey.

On July 14, 2015, at approximately 11:29 p.m., police and fire officials were dispatched to 15 Pine Street, Morristown, on a report of a residential fire. Responders located an active fire to a multiple family dwelling with approximately five apartments. There were approximately 11 people living at the residence at the time.

The investigation has revealed that the origin of the fire was from the lower level of the residence.  Kelly Smith, age 31, a resident of the dwelling, expired during the course of the fire. The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office has determined the manner of death as an accident.

At this time, the cause of the fire does not appear to be suspicious in nature and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office does not anticipate any criminal charges being filed.   

Prosecutor Knapp would like to thank Morristown Bureau of Police Chief Demnitz, the Morristown Bureau of Police, the Morristown Fire Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, the Morris County Fire Marshall, the Morris County Office of Emergency Management, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Arson and Major Crimes Units and other mutual aid for their efforts in this matter.

Any inquiries should be directed to Morris County Deputy Chief of Investigations Denise Arseneault at 973-285-6262 or darseneault@co.morris.nj.us.